Moving your business (and your family) to a new location can be an overwhelming process, but a cross-country relocation adds another layer of complexity. Despite this, 4.8 million Americans made interstate moves in 2021. With a bit of help, you and your family can do the same.
How to Successfully Complete an Interstate Move
Once you’ve gotten your profitable business idea off the ground, you may consider moving to be closer to your customers, friends, or family.
Here’s how to execute a successful interstate move.
Start Writing Your Plan of Attack As Soon as Possible
Start the planning process as early as possible to give yourself enough time to research and prepare for the move. Consider factors such as the cost of relocation, potential impact on your business, and any necessary permits or licenses, as well as residential moving expenditures.
Hire a Reputable and Experienced Moving Company
Choose a reputable moving company that has experience with commercial and residential moves. Get quotes from multiple companies to compare prices and services. For example, you can use 9kilo’s comparison tool to find the best long-distance moving company on their website.
Review Your Business Lease and Sell Your Old House
Look over your current business lease early, so you can create an accurate moving timeline. Put your house on the market the moment you want to move. If you have to pay a fee to break your lease agreement, make sure you settle that bill up before leaving. Make building repairs quickly.
Organize an Accurate Timeline for Home and Business
Moving across the United States takes a lot of time and money, so you’ll need to stay organized. Figure out when you want to be officially moved out and work backward from there. A timeline can determine when to hire a moving company, change your address, and cancel utilities.
Create a Budget (But Separate Business From Personal)
Determine how much the move will cost and set a budget. This will help you allocate resources effectively and avoid any financial surprises. Always remember to separate your personal from your business moving costs so you don’t mix these expenses up on invoices or tax documents.
Notify Your Customers, Vendors, and Loyal Employees
Inform your customers, vendors, and employees about the move as soon as possible. Provide them with your new contact information and any other relevant details. Consider relocating your top employees, writing them a reference letter, or recommending them on LinkedIn beforehand.
Take an Inventory, Label Everything, and Use Storage
Before you pack anything, take an inventory of everything you plan to move. Then, make a list of items that will fit in your new space, such as electronics, furniture, and supplies. Label your boxes to make everything easier to find. If you have too many things, use a self-storage option.
Update Your Home and Business Records Online
Make sure to update your business records with your new address, phone number, and any other relevant information. Don’t forget about your website and social media profiles, as they’re typically the first place new customers look. Do the same for your home address and number.
Plan For Downtime as You and Your Family Get Settled
Expect some major disruptions during the move. Consider ways to minimize the impact on your business, such as offering alternative options to your customers or closing down temporarily. If possible, book days off to unpack your home so you have one less thing to worry about.
Set Up Your New Business Location (and Home Office)
Once you arrive at your new location, focus on getting everything set up in your home and business as quickly as possible. This includes organizing your workspace, updating IT systems, speaking to new vendors and customers, and getting car insurance for you and your family.
